How Freezing Rain Forms From Supercooled Drops
How Freezing Rain Forms From Supercooled Drops
US · Published Oct 11, 2026
• Freezing rain occurs when supercooled liquid water droplets freeze upon contact with surfaces.
• Supercooled water remains in liquid form even at temperatures below 0 °C (32 °F) due to the absence of nucleation points.

Impact & Risks

Freezing rain poses significant risks to transportation, infrastructure, and public safety. Roads and sidewalks can become dangerously slippery, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Power lines and tree branches may accumulate ice, leading to power outages and potential property damage. In aviation, freezing rain can create in-flight icing, which is a serious safety hazard. These risks are particularly pronounced in regions experiencing prolonged periods of freezing temperatures, as the accumulation of ice can exacerbate the dangers (ScienceABC, 2026).

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